This no reserve auction is for a Lionel Classics 6-13103 Standard Gauge 400E Locomotive with 400T Tender in their original box.  These come in the classic two-tone “Blue Comet” colors.  This is a faithful re-issue of the 400E which was Lionel’s top-of-the-line engine in Lionel’s Standard Gauge line from 1931 – 1939.  This Lionel Classics 400E was cataloged in 1990 only. 

 

This engine and tender combo is spectacular.  The wheels and pickup rollers show no run time.  The engine frame was replaced and has a matte finish to it.  All trim is present.  Very few minor contact marks.  There is no warping and the wheels rotated freely when examined.  No wear on the red cowcatcher.  The 12-wheel 400T tender also has wheels that show no run time.  Very few minor contact marks on the tender.  The original box shows a few bumps & bruises.  The original 2-piece styrofoam insert keeps the pieces centered and protected while inside of the box.  Please examine the enlargeable pictures closely for additional descriptive detail.  Please also check out my other listings for the matching Lionel Classics Blue Comet Passenger Set (3 cars – 1420 Faye Coach, 1421 Westphal Coach and 1422 Tempel Observation) ending within a few minutes of this auction.  


If you would be interested in selling or consigning all or pieces of your collection please feel free to contact me to discuss.


BASIC BACKGROUND:  I have been a member of the TCA for almost 40 years so you can bid with confidence.  I have a pretty good depth of knowledge but I certainly don’t know everything about trains.  I am in the process of thinning out a lifetime train collection that started in the early 1970’s.  It includes many rare and unusual items most of which are very high quality in original packaging.  Some examples are a boxed 460P Piggyback Platform, boxed 3356-150 Horse Corral Platform, dealer and factory sealed items, as well as many pre and post war boxed sets.  Most of my collection is Lionel with some Ives, American Flyer and other manufacturers represented.  I do not have a collection list to share at this time.  Many things I list are being sold on behalf of consignors.


 


MANAGING EXPECTATIONS: I have found that the best way to establish and maintain mutually beneficial relationships is to manage expectations up front.  Before placing any bids, it is important that all bidders understand the following:


 


DESCRIPTIONS:  I am a firm believer that pictures speak a thousand words.  I try to include a variety of brightly lit, clearly focused pictures from multiple angles in my listings.  The pictures are a key part of the description.  As a supplement to the pictures I also provide a reasonably detailed written description that discloses what I see, what I know and what I think.  Between the pictures description and written description, buyers should have a fair opportunity to understand what they are bidding on.  If there is something that you do not understand or if you need additional information or pictures please ask in advance of bidding rather than assume anything. 


 


TESTING & WARRANTIES:  Please understand that I am simply a collector who enjoys the rich history of The Lionel Corporation with a primary focus on the prewar and postwar eras.  I have no active layout.  I am not a manufacturer, Service Station Technician or operator.  I do not test everything I sell and I do not perform anything other than the most basic testing when I do.  I do not perform any kind of detailed and/or internal examination of any engine or motor and make no representation about its suitability for any particular purpose.  Accordingly, no warranty of any kind is provided regarding operability even if an item has been tested. The results of any specific testing are provided in good faith as a courtesy only. Your experience may be different. Most items I sell range in age from 50 – 100 years old.  At a minimum, basic maintenance and/or lubrication will probably be necessary if you plan to operate any piece you purchase.  


 


PAYMENT:  Payment is expected within 3 days unless other arrangements have been made.  eBay rules require you to inquire about alternative payment methods.  TCA members are given special consideration.


 


SHIPPING:  When practical, multiple items may be sent together to save on shipping costs. All items are carefully packed and typically shipped via USPS Priority Mail or Ground Advantage within 1 business day after payment clears. Very large packages sometimes are sent via UPS or FedEx.  I reserve the right to select the shipping method at my discretion.  Shipping is not a profit center for me so if I overestimate the cost by $2.00 or more I will voluntarily refund the difference.  In the unlikely event of damage that occurs during shipping, buyer agrees to process any claim eligible for insurance coverage directly through the carrier.  If carrier tracking indicates an item has been delivered, but somehow you did not receive it, buyer agrees to follow through with the local carrier and/or postmaster and process any claim eligible for insurance coverage directly through the carrier.  If carrier tracking indicates an item has not been delivered, I will handle the insurance claim on my end. 



COMMUNICATION: Your inquiries are very important to me and I will make best efforts to be prompt and thorough with my responses.  Kindly allow for a reasonable response time to your questions. 


I appreciate your interest in my listings. Thanks for looking and good luck bidding!